Mitoma Shines for Japan, While Albion Teammate Sits Out

Kaoru Mitoma came on at half-time as Japan beat Scotland 1-0 at Hampden Park. He caused constant problems for the home defence.

Mitoma was heavily involved in a multi-player move. That sequence led to Junya Ito’s late winner.

Performance and reaction

Mitoma Shines for Japan was clear from his attacking movement. Brighton will welcome his sharpness and fitness.

He swapped shirts with former Albion colleague Billy Gilmour at full-time. Gilmour had come on as a late substitute for Scotland.

Japan now prepare to face England at Wembley on Tuesday. The match will be a tougher test.

Albion squad updates

Albion are likely pleased with Mitoma’s workload and physical condition. His display will reassure the coaching staff.

Meanwhile an Albion teammate sat out after a minor issue. Jack Hinshelwood left his national squad following a precautionary withdrawal.

Head coach Lee Carsley confirmed Hinshelwood returned with injury concerns. Filmogaz.com has been advised the problem is very minor.

Other Brighton-linked internationals

James Beadle, the Albion goalkeeper on loan at Birmingham, kept goal for England. He remains active on the international stage.

Bart Verbruggen played the full match for the Netherlands. Jan Paul van Hecke completed 82 minutes as the Dutch beat Norway 2-1 in a friendly.

Pascal Gross was on Germany’s bench in a 4-3 win over Switzerland. He entered for the final ten minutes, when his side scored the winner.

The German under-21s beat Northern Ireland 3-0 in a Euros qualifier. Brajan Gruda started alongside Cologne prospect Said El-Mala, reportedly an Albion transfer target.

That U21 result kept pressure on group leaders Greece. Charalampos Kostoulas started as Greece defeated Malta 5-0.